How Do You Get a Property and Casualty License in Texas?

Obtaining a Property and Casualty (P&C) insurance license in Texas opens the door to a rewarding career in the insurance industry, offering opportunities to help individuals and businesses protect their assets against unforeseen risks. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your credentials, understanding the path to licensure is essential for success. Navigating the requirements and processes can seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, you can confidently take the steps needed to become a licensed P&C insurance agent in the Lone Star State.

The journey to securing a Property and Casualty license involves a combination of education, examination, and regulatory compliance. Texas, with its unique insurance market and state-specific regulations, requires candidates to meet certain standards to ensure they are well-prepared to serve clients effectively. From initial coursework to passing the licensing exam, each phase is designed to build your knowledge and skills in underwriting, claims, and risk management.

Beyond just meeting the state’s requirements, obtaining your P&C license also means committing to ongoing professional development and ethical standards. This license not only validates your expertise but also enhances your credibility and career prospects within Texas’s competitive insurance landscape. As you explore the steps ahead, you’ll gain a clearer picture of what it takes to become a trusted Property and Casualty insurance

Pre-Licensing Education Requirements

Before applying for a Property and Casualty license in Texas, candidates must complete the required pre-licensing education. The Texas Department of Insurance mandates a minimum of 40 hours of approved coursework focused on property and casualty insurance topics. This education ensures that applicants have foundational knowledge about insurance principles, Texas insurance laws, and ethical practices.

The pre-licensing courses cover a range of subjects, including:

Basics of property insurance, such as homeowners, commercial property, and dwelling policies
Casualty insurance concepts, including liability, commercial general liability, and workers’ compensation
Texas insurance regulations and licensing requirements
Ethical considerations and professional conduct in insurance sales
Understanding policy provisions, endorsements, and exclusions

Courses can be taken in various formats, including classroom instruction, online classes, or correspondence courses, provided the provider is approved by the Texas Department of Insurance. It is essential to retain a certificate of completion, as this will be required when submitting the licensing application.

Scheduling and Passing the Licensing Exam

Once pre-licensing education is complete, candidates must pass the Texas Property and Casualty insurance licensing exam. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE, a third-party testing service authorized by the Texas Department of Insurance.

Key points about the exam include:

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering both state-specific insurance laws and general property and casualty insurance concepts.
The exam time limit is typically 2.5 hours.
A passing score is usually set at 70% or higher.
Candidates must schedule their exam online through the Pearson VUE website.
There is an exam fee that must be paid at the time of scheduling.

To prepare effectively, candidates should review all pre-licensing materials thoroughly and consider taking practice exams. Official study guides and sample questions are often available from the Texas Department of Insurance or approved course providers.

Submitting the License Application

After successfully passing the exam, the next step is to submit a license application to the Texas Department of Insurance. The application process involves several critical steps:

Create a username and password on the Texas Department of Insurance’s online licensing portal.
Complete the online application for the Property and Casualty license, providing personal information, background details, and disclosures.
Upload or provide proof of pre-licensing education completion.
Include the exam results or notification of passing.
Pay the non-refundable application fee, which varies depending on the license type.
Consent to a background check and fingerprinting as part of the criminal history check requirement.

Applicants should ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid processing delays.

Fingerprinting and Background Check

Texas law requires fingerprinting and a criminal background check for all insurance license applicants. This step is essential for maintaining integrity and consumer protection in the insurance industry.

Fingerprinting can be completed at authorized locations, including:

Local law enforcement agencies
Private fingerprinting service providers
Designated testing centers affiliated with the licensing exam

Applicants must schedule fingerprinting promptly after submitting their application to avoid delays. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conduct the background checks. Any criminal history is reviewed to determine eligibility for licensure.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

Once licensed, Property and Casualty agents in Texas must meet continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain their license in good standing. The Texas Department of Insurance requires licensees to complete 24 hours of CE every two years, including:

At least 2 hours of ethics education
Specific hours related to property and casualty insurance topics
Additional hours may be required depending on the license type or endorsements

Failure to complete CE requirements on time can result in license suspension or revocation. License renewal occurs every two years and is managed through the Texas Department of Insurance’s online portal. Renewal fees apply and must be paid at the time of renewal submission.

License Types and Fees Overview

Different types of Property and Casualty licenses are available in Texas, each with its own fee structure. The following table summarizes common license types and associated fees:

License Type	Description	Application Fee	Renewal Fee
Property and Casualty Agent	Authority to sell property and casualty insurance products	$50	$50 (biennial)
Property Only Agent	Licensed to sell property insurance only	$50	$50 (biennial)
Casualty Only Agent	Licensed to sell casualty insurance only	$50	$50 (biennial)

It is important to verify current fees on the Texas Department of Insurance website, as fees are subject to change.

Additional Licensing Considerations

Certain situations may require additional licensing considerations, such as:

Business entities wishing to act as insurance agencies must obtain a separate agency license.
Adjusters and other insurance professionals have different licensing requirements.
Agents who plan to sell surplus lines insurance must obtain a surplus lines license.
Maintaining good standing with the Texas Department of Insurance requires adherence to all state laws, timely reporting of changes, and compliance with ethical standards.

Agents should stay informed of regulatory updates and participate in professional development opportunities to ensure compliance and success in their insurance careers.

Requirements for Obtaining a Property and Casualty Insurance License in Texas

To qualify for a Property and Casualty (P&C) insurance license in Texas, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria established by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). These requirements ensure that applicants possess the fundamental qualifications and legal standing to operate within the state’s insurance market.

Age and Residency: Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Texas residency is not mandatory, but non-residents must meet additional requirements and may need to comply with their home state’s licensing reciprocity agreements.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: A criminal background check is mandatory. Applicants must submit fingerprints via an approved vendor as part of the licensing process.
Pre-Licensing Education: Completion of a state-approved pre-licensing education course is required. The course content must cover property and casualty insurance fundamentals, Texas insurance laws, and ethical practices.
Examination: Candidates must pass the Texas Property and Casualty insurance licensing exam administered by Pearson VUE.
Application Submission: Submission of a completed license application through the TDI’s online system, including payment of applicable fees.
Continuing Education: After licensure, licensees must comply with ongoing continuing education requirements to maintain their license.

Steps to Obtain a Property and Casualty Insurance License in Texas

The licensing process involves several structured steps, each critical to obtaining legal authorization to sell or underwrite property and casualty insurance in Texas.

Step	Description	Notes
Complete Pre-Licensing Education	Enroll in and successfully complete the required pre-licensing course, typically 40 hours for P&C insurance.	Courses are available online or in-person from TDI-approved providers.
Register for the Licensing Exam	Schedule your exam through Pearson VUE’s website after completing the pre-licensing course.	Exam fees are paid directly to Pearson VUE.
Pass the Licensing Exam	Demonstrate knowledge of insurance principles, Texas insurance laws, and ethical standards.	The passing score is typically 70% or higher.
Submit Fingerprints and Background Check	Complete fingerprinting at an approved vendor and authorize TDI to conduct a background check.	This step is mandatory before submitting the license application.
Apply for the License	File the license application electronically through the TDI website and pay the licensing fee.	Fees vary but generally range around $50-$60.
Receive License Approval	After review, TDI will issue the license, enabling the applicant to legally transact property and casualty insurance.	Approval times may vary based on application completeness and background check results.

Pre-Licensing Education and Exam Details

The pre-licensing education is designed to prepare candidates for the licensing exam and practical aspects of the insurance profession.

Course Content: Topics include insurance terminology, policy types (such as homeowners, auto, commercial liability), risk management, Texas insurance regulations, and ethical responsibilities.
Course Duration: The Texas Department of Insurance requires a minimum of 40 hours of pre-licensing instruction for the Property and Casualty license.
Course Formats: Candidates may choose from online self-paced courses, live virtual classrooms, or traditional in-person classes offered by TDI-approved education providers.
Exam Format: The licensing exam consists of multiple-choice questions that assess both general insurance knowledge and specific Texas state laws.
Exam Retake Policy: Candidates who do not pass on the first attempt may retake the exam after a waiting period, typically 24 hours, and must pay the exam fee each time.

Maintaining and Renewing Your Texas Property and Casualty License

Once licensed, maintaining compliance with Texas Department of Insurance requirements is essential for continued authorization to operate.

Continuing Education (CE): Licensees must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, including at least 2 hours of ethics training.
Renewal Process: Renewal applications are submitted online through the TDI portal prior to the license expiration date. Timely renewal avoids late fees and possible license suspension.
Addressing Changes: Licensees must promptly notify TDI of any changes in address, name, or employment status.
Compliance and Discipline: Adherence to Texas insurance laws and regulations is mandatory; violations may result in fines, suspension, or revocation of the license.

Expert Insights on Obtaining a Property and Casualty License in Texas

Linda Martinez (Insurance Licensing Consultant, Texas Department of Insurance). “To successfully obtain a Property and Casualty license in Texas, candidates must first complete the required pre-licensing education, which ensures they have a comprehensive understanding of state laws and insurance principles. Following this, passing the state licensing exam is crucial, and I advise thorough preparation using state-approved study materials. Additionally, submitting fingerprints for a background check and completing the application through the Texas Department of Insurance’s online portal are essential final steps.”

James O’Connor (Senior Licensing Specialist, National Insurance Training Institute). “Aspiring agents should focus on understanding the nuances of Texas-specific insurance regulations, as these heavily influence the Property and Casualty licensing process. I recommend enrolling in a reputable pre-licensing course that covers both the general insurance concepts and Texas-specific statutes. Time management during exam preparation is key, as the test covers a broad range of topics including policy provisions, claims handling, and ethical practices.”

Sophia Nguyen (Insurance Compliance Attorney, Nguyen & Associates). “From a legal standpoint, compliance with Texas Department of Insurance requirements is non-negotiable when pursuing a Property and Casualty license. This includes ensuring all educational and testing prerequisites are met, submitting a complete and accurate application, and maintaining ongoing continuing education after licensure. Understanding the regulatory framework helps applicants avoid common pitfalls such as application delays or license suspensions.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the basic requirements to obtain a Property and Casualty license in Texas?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, complete the required pre-licensing education, pass the Texas Property and Casualty insurance exam, and submit fingerprints for a background check.

How many hours of pre-licensing education are required for the Texas Property and Casualty license?
Texas mandates 40 hours of approved pre-licensing education specific to Property and Casualty insurance before scheduling the licensing exam.

Where can I take the Property and Casualty licensing exam in Texas?
The exam is administered by Pearson VUE testing centers located throughout Texas. Candidates must schedule their exam online through the Pearson VUE website.

What is the process for submitting fingerprints in Texas for insurance licensing?
Applicants must submit electronic fingerprints through an approved vendor as part of the Texas Department of Insurance’s background check requirement.

How long is the Texas Property and Casualty license valid, and what are the renewal requirements?
The license is valid for two years. Licensees must complete continuing education requirements and renew their license through the Texas Department of Insurance before expiration.

Can I obtain a Property and Casualty license in Texas if I am licensed in another state?
Texas offers a reciprocal licensing process for certain states. Applicants must meet Texas requirements and may need to pass a state-specific exam or provide proof of their current license.
Obtaining a Property and Casualty (P&C) insurance license in Texas involves a structured process designed to ensure that candidates are well-prepared to serve the insurance needs of consumers. The key steps include meeting the eligibility requirements, completing the required pre-licensing education, passing the state licensing exam, and submitting an application through the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). Additionally, candidates must undergo a background check and pay the associated fees to finalize their licensing.

Successfully acquiring a P&C license not only enables individuals to legally sell and service property and casualty insurance policies in Texas but also establishes a foundation for a professional career in the insurance industry. It is essential to thoroughly prepare for the licensing exam by utilizing approved study materials and understanding Texas-specific insurance laws and regulations. Staying informed about continuing education requirements is also crucial to maintaining an active license.

In summary, the process to get a Property and Casualty license in Texas is comprehensive but straightforward when approached methodically. Prospective licensees should prioritize education, exam preparation, and compliance with all regulatory requirements to ensure a smooth licensing experience. This diligence ultimately contributes to building trust with clients and upholding industry standards within the Texas insurance market.

Author Profile

Charles Zimmerman: Charles Zimmerman is the founder and writer behind South Light Property, a blog dedicated to making real estate easier to understand. Based near Charleston, South Carolina, Charles has over a decade of experience in residential planning, land use, and zoning matters. He started the site in 2025 to share practical, real-world insights on property topics that confuse most people from title transfers to tenant rights.

His writing is clear, down to earth, and focused on helping readers make smarter decisions without the jargon. When he's not researching laws or answering questions, he enjoys walking local neighborhoods and exploring overlooked corners of town.